Learning through wonder, play and nature
At Sunshine, learning is active, social and full of possibility. We draw from Te Whāriki, the New Zealand early childhood curriculum, to weave child-led, spontaneous and teacher-initiated experiences around each tamaiti.
Nature as the third teacher
The great Kiwi outdoors is central to our approach. Trees, grass, mud, gardens, animals and changing weather invite children to wonder, test ideas, care for the living world and take healthy risks. Nature is not a backdrop; it is our third teacher.
A curriculum woven around each child
Our practice is informed by educational approaches including Rose Pere, Te Wheke, Te Whare Tapa Whā, Bronfenbrenner, Pikler/Gerber, Reggio Emilia and Vygotsky. In everyday language, this means we respect children as capable learners, build trusting relationships and provide safe, challenging and emotionally nurturing environments.
For infants, respectful care, freedom of movement, sensitive observation and uninterrupted play matter. For all children, kaiako listen, notice interests, offer thoughtful support and allow learning to unfold in a child’s own time—ā tōna wā.
Play, relationships and exploration
Music, movement, stories, art, sensory discovery, outdoor challenges, gardens and everyday conversations all create learning opportunities. Children develop memory, listening, oral language, mathematical ideas, physical confidence, persistence, curiosity and social skills through experiences that have meaning to them.
Learning made visible
Each child has an individual portfolio with learning stories, photos, artwork, anecdotes and parent contributions. We use whānau aspirations alongside what we see children doing and enjoying to guide future learning.
Preschool and getting ready for school
At Sunshine, learning is active, social and full of possibility. We draw from Te Whāriki, the New Zealand early childhood curriculum, to weave child-led, spontaneous and teacher-initiated experiences around each tamaiti.
Events and shared experiences
Family and whānau events, outings and visiting experiences create connection beyond the room. We give families notice where their involvement is needed and welcome their contributions to their child’s learning.
